Nature Lovers Loop

There’s no place better to escape the city than the Dandenong Ranges. Just a short drive from Melbourne's CBD and you’ll feel a world away surrounded by lush greens and ferns, towering ash trees, brightly blooming florals and native birds. No matter what season you visit, there’s always something in bloom and a sanctuary of green to get lost in.

Here are some of our top nature experiences in the Dandenong Ranges.

1. Alfred Nicholas Gardens - Sherbrooke

Leave Melbourne and go straight to one of the region’s most loved places, the Alfred Nicholas Gardens in Sherbrooke. Follow the winding paths down to an ornamental lake and its photogenic boathouse. There are waterfalls, plenty of native flowers and birdlife and even the local echidnas have been known to scurry across the walking paths.

Here you’ll find plenty of areas suitable for a picnic lunch or BYO morning tea. There’s public parking across from the garden entry, bathroom facilities and dogs are even allowed on a lead.

The historic garden is open daily from 10 am to 5pm and it’s full of vibrant foliage and greenery as well as tall, shady trees that make hiking through this area cool even during the summer months.

Find more gardens

2. Tesselaar KaBloom and Tesselaar Tulip Festival - Silvan

Make plans to visit Tesselaar KaBloom (29 March - 27 April 2025) and Tesselaar Tulip Festival (13 September - 12 October 2025). These festivals are highlights in our region's event calendar and are loved by people of all ages.

There's so much to see and do! Take photos and admire the beautiful flowers in full bloom, adults and kids are entertained with lots of fun activities, delicious food and drinks are on offer and dogs are welcome on a lead.

Make sure to bring your camera!

Find more attractions and events

3. Micawber Tavern - Belgrave

Century old Micawber Tavern is a long time favourite destination for locals, day-trippers and tourists alike.

Their famous beer garden is surrounded by old growth forest, ferns and the beautiful 'Clematis Creek' is simply the best place to be on a sunny afternoon or balmy evening. Enjoy Sunday Sessions, Live Music and a great atmosphere.

Find more places to eat and drink

4. Puffing Billy Railway - Belgrave

With lush fern gullies brushing past the open side carriages and Mountain Ash trees towering overhead, Puffing Billy Railway makes for a wonderful opportunity to relax and breathe in the fresh air whilst the train makes its way through the temperate rainforest.

Sitting on the carriage sill of Puffing Billy's open-side carriages is a must-do activity for people of all ages and something you'll be talking about for years to come!

Make sure to pre-book your experience to avoid disappointment.

Find more nature and adventure experiences

5. Cloudehill Gardens - Olinda

Make sure to visit Cloudehill Gardens and stroll through an oasis of more than 25 beautifully manicured private gardens and lawns as well as enjoy garden sculptures and artworks.

Deep volcanic soil and moist mild weather allow plants to reach majestic proportions. The weeping Japanese maples at the heart of the garden are of serious significance. Imported from the legendary Yokohama Nursery in Japan they have been growing on the property since 1928.

Find more gardens

6. Grants on Sherbrooke - Kallista

Whilst exploring one of the Dandenong Ranges' most picturesque locations, Sherbrooke Forest, stop by Grants on Sherbrooke for home-style hospitality, delectable food, and an unmatched range of gifts and souvenirs.

Afterwards, explore the many walking trails, and maybe even spot the local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Find more places to eat and drink

Where to Stay

Valley Ranges Getaways - Dandenong Ranges

Discover the Dandenong Ranges in a whole new light by staying in some of the region's most Instagram-worthy and unique private homes and cottages.

All accommodations are expertly managed by Valley Ranges Getaways, with a diverse range of options to suit every occasion, budget, and aesthetic, you’ll find your ideal getaway.

Arcadia Cottages - Olinda

Make it a staycation and feel a world away with Arcadia Cottages, located in the beautiful Olinda township. Their four spa cottages are set separately amongst 3 acres of gardens giving maximum privacy to enjoy a retreat amongst the forest.

This romantic retreat will have you falling in love with the Dandenong Ranges. We guarantee you'll be back time and again!

Billabong Falls - Olinda

Also in Olinda, Billabong Falls is a luxurious bed and breakfast where you can stay among towering Mountain Ash trees and lush natural bushland.

Escape to peace, quiet and reconnect with nature, listen to tumbling waterfalls, swim in the natural swimming pool or just sit and drink in the surrounds and views. You will not want to leave!

More places to stay in the Dandenong Ranges